Claim $20 from Apple: Apple has agreed to a $95 million settlement following a class-action lawsuit alleging that its virtual assistant, Siri, recorded private conversations without user consent. This settlement, representing about nine hours of Apple’s annual profits, reflects the growing concern around data privacy and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in smart devices. While Apple denies the allegations, the company chose to settle to avoid extended legal proceedings.
Let’s take a closer look at the lawsuit, the settlement terms, and how affected users can claim their share.
The Privacy Issue Behind the Lawsuit
In 2019, reports revealed that Siri could inadvertently activate and record private conversations due to everyday background noises. This sparked significant public concern about privacy breaches. Whistleblower claims also revealed that Apple contractors listened to these recordings for quality testing, raising questions about data misuse and ethical practices.
The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Oakland, California, covered allegations of privacy violations from September 2014 to December 2024. Key issues included:
- Unintended Activations: Siri misinterpreted normal sounds as its wake phrase, “Hey Siri,” causing it to record private conversations.
- Eavesdropping by Contractors: Reports alleged that Apple’s quality assurance staff reviewed up to 1,000 audio recordings daily, including sensitive conversations.
- Data Sharing Concerns: Plaintiffs claimed Apple shared these recordings with advertisers, leading to targeted ads based on private conversations.
Apple’s $95 Million Settlement
Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to compensate users and cover legal expenses. Approximately $30 million will go toward attorney fees and related costs, with the remaining $65 million allocated for eligible claimants. Users could receive up to $20 for each Siri-enabled device they owned during the affected period.
Settlement Timeline
The settlement awaits court approval, which is expected on February 14, 2025. Once finalized, claimants will have until May 15, 2025, to file their claims.
Eligibility Criteria for Compensation
Only U.S.-based users who owned Siri-enabled devices between 2014 and 2019 are eligible for compensation. Proof of ownership, such as serial numbers or purchase receipts, is required when filing a claim. Eligible devices include:
| Device | Eligibility Period |
|---|---|
| iPhone | September 2014 – December 2022 |
| iPad | September 2014 – December 2022 |
| MacBook | September 2014 – December 2022 |
| Apple Watch | April 2015 – December 2022 |
| HomePod | February 2018 – December 2022 |
Filing a Claim
The official claim website is expected to launch by February 2025. Here’s how users can file:
- Visit the settlement website once it is active.
- Fill out the claim form, providing necessary documentation (device serial numbers or proof of purchase).
- Choose a payment method (direct deposit or mailed check).
- Submit the claim by the deadline, anticipated to be May 15, 2025.
Apple’s Privacy Reforms and Defense
Apple maintains its denial of wrongdoing and highlights its commitment to user privacy. In response to the allegations, the company implemented significant changes:
- Anonymized Data: Siri was designed to anonymize user data and avoid storing personally identifiable information.
- Policy Updates: After the 2019 revelations, Apple paused its grading program and made Siri recordings opt-in by default.
- Confidentiality Standards: Contractors working on Siri audio reviews are bound by strict confidentiality agreements.
Apple spokesperson Shane Bauer reiterated, “Siri data has never been used to build marketing profiles or sold to anyone for any purpose.”
How to Safeguard Your Privacy on Siri-Enabled Devices
While the settlement addresses past issues, users can take proactive steps to secure their personal data:
Turn Off Siri
- iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > Siri & Search and disable “Listen for ‘Hey Siri’.”
- Mac: Open System Settings > Siri & Spotlight and toggle off “Ask Siri.”
Adjust Privacy Settings
- Review app permissions to limit unnecessary data access.
- Enable two-factor authentication for better account security.
- Regularly update device software to benefit from enhanced privacy protections.
Apple’s $95 million settlement is a significant step toward addressing privacy concerns in the era of smart devices. This case highlights the importance of transparency, ethical AI practices, and robust user privacy protections. Affected users should seize the opportunity to file claims while adopting measures to protect their data in the future.
By taking control of their device settings and following the claims process, users can ensure their privacy and accountability in the tech world.
FAQ
What is the Siri privacy lawsuit about?
The lawsuit alleges that Apple’s Siri virtual assistant recorded users’ private conversations without their consent due to accidental activations. The case resulted in a $95 million settlement.
Who is eligible for the Siri lawsuit settlement?
U.S.-based users who owned Siri-enabled devices between September 2014 and December 2022 are eligible for compensation, provided they submit proof of ownership.
How much can I receive from the Siri settlement?
Eligible claimants can receive up to $20 for each Siri-enabled device they owned during the eligibility period.
How can I file a claim for the Siri settlement?
You can file a claim by visiting the official settlement website, providing documentation like serial numbers or proof of purchase, and submitting your claim by the deadline, expected to be May 15, 2025.
What steps can I take to protect my privacy on Apple devices?
To protect your privacy, you can disable Siri activation, review app permissions, enable two-factor authentication, and keep your device software up to date.
